Thursday, July 9, 2026 Every July, a wave of federal benefit payments resets for the new benefit year — and 2026 brings one of the biggest shifts in years. Between a permanent 25% boost to the old GST/HST credit, a fresh Canada Child Benefit increase, and the largest quarterly OAS bump of the year, millions of Canadian households will see different numbers land in their accounts this month. Here's what actually changed, and what to check in your own CRA account. The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) . It's not a new program from scratch — it runs on the same CRA infrastructure and eligibility rules — but the payment amounts are 25% higher, and that increase is locked in for five years. The first CGEB payment went out on July 3, 2026. Under the new structure: A single individual with no children can receive up to roughly $679 per year (about $170 per quart...
Australia Decides: Voters Head to the Polls in Pivotal Election
Australians are casting their votes today in a national election that could shape the country’s future for years to come. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Labor Party is facing off against the conservative opposition led by Peter Dutton, with key issues such as cost-of-living pressures, affordable housing, and energy policy dominating the campaign.
Polling stations opened early across the country, with voters lining up to make their voices heard. Both major parties have focused on economic concerns, but global uncertainty—particularly the influence of U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies—has played a significant role in shaping voter sentiment.
Albanese, seeking a second term, has emphasized his government’s achievements, including rising wages and declining inflation. Meanwhile, Dutton has promised to cut government spending and reduce immigration, positioning himself as a strong alternative to Labor’s leadership.
With opinion polls showing a tight race, the outcome remains uncertain. As ballots are counted, Australians await the results that will determine the nation’s direction in the coming years.
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